PROLOGUE

A Birthday Surprise

Audrey stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the hem of her dress for what felt like the hundredth time. Tonight was Frank's birthday party, and she wanted everything to be perfect. The blue dress she wore accentuated her eyes and made her feel confident, even if only for a moment. Her brother, Jake, had given her a quick nod of approval before disappearing into his room, grumbling about her fussing.

As she arrived at Frank's house, her nerves intensified. The mansion was even more imposing up close, with its grand columns and sprawling lawns. She took a deep breath and walked up to the door, ringing the bell. Frank opened it with his trademark charming smile.

"Audrey, you look stunning," he said, pulling her into a warm embrace.

"Thanks, Frank," she replied, her heart fluttering. "Happy birthday."

He led her inside, and she marveled at the opulence around her. The house was filled with guests, laughter, and music. Frank introduced her to his family, who were polite but distant. As the evening wore on, she found herself alone with Frank in one of the quieter rooms.

"Audrey," he began, his voice low and serious, "I need to ask you something."

She looked up at him, sensing the gravity in his tone. "What is it?"

"Will you stay with me tonight?" he asked, his eyes searching hers.

Audrey's heart skipped a beat. She had heard about Frank's reputation, but she had hoped he saw her differently. "Frank, I... I don't know if I'm ready for that."

He sighed, frustration evident on his face. "I thought you cared about me. Maybe I was wrong."

Panic set in as she watched him turn away. "Wait, Frank," she called, her voice trembling. "Please, let's talk about this."

He paused, a smirk playing on his lips. "So you'll stay?"

Audrey nodded, feeling trapped. Just as he leaned in to kiss her, her phone rang. She glanced at the screen and saw it was Jake.

"Sorry, I have to take this," she said, stepping away from Frank.

"Audrey, where are you?" Jake's voice was frantic. "I need you to come home. Now."

Her heart pounded as she heard the urgency in his voice. "I'm on my way," she replied, hanging up.

"What's going on?" Frank asked, annoyance creeping into his voice.

"It's Jake. He sounds like he's in trouble," she said, grabbing her things.

"You're leaving? Now?" Frank's frustration was palpable.

"I have to," she said, her voice firm. "He's my brother."

Without another word, she hurried out of the mansion and drove home, her mind racing with worry. When she arrived, Jake was sitting on the couch, looking uncharacteristically calm.

"What happened?" she demanded, relief and anger battling within her.

"I just needed you here," he said simply. "Go to bed. We'll talk in the morning."

Confused and exhausted, Audrey did as he asked. The next morning, as she descended the stairs, she was stunned to see a stranger sitting at the kitchen table. He looked up and smiled warmly.